South Korea was the last destination of our second trip around the world. It was our second time visiting the country, and this time we couldn’t miss one of its natural wonders—Jeju Island. Choosing where to stay in Jeju largely depends on your travel style: nature, city, or beach? In this guide, we share the three best areas—Seogwipo, Jeju City, and Hamdeok—and suggest hotels for all budgets, from economical to luxurious.
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Best areas to stay in Jeju
Before choosing where to stay in Jeju, it’s worth knowing what distinguishes each area:
- Seogwipo: Ideal for nature lovers – close to waterfalls, cliffs, and coastal trails.
- Jeju City: Perfect for those who want convenience, restaurants, transportation, and quick access to the airport.
- Hamdeok: Great for relaxing by the beach, with turquoise-blue waters and ocean-view accommodations.
Seogwipo: nature, waterfalls, and seaside luxury
Located in the south of the island, Seogwipo is famous for its natural landscapes: waterfalls, cliffs, and coastal trails. It’s ideal for those who want to be in touch with nature without sacrificing comfort.
Best hotels in Seogwipo
- Budget: Hotel Winstory – Great budget option with spacious rooms and a convenient location near shops and restaurants. This is where we stayed.
- Mid-range: Hotel Bridge Seogwipo – Good location and excellent value for money.
- Luxury: JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa – Absolute luxury with ocean views and a spa.
Jeju City: convenience, restaurants, and quick access
Staying in the main city is ideal for those arriving by plane or wanting a convenient base to explore the island. The food scene is diverse, and there are plenty of transportation options available.
Best hotels in Jeju City
- Budget: Jeju Seomun Residence Hotel – Budget-friendly, centrally located, simple and comfortable for practical stays. This is where we stayed.
- Mid-range: Maison GLAD Jeju – Modern, with a spa and casino.
- Luxury: LOTTE City Hotel Jeju – Ocean views and a rooftop pool.
Hamdeok: beach, scenery, and relaxation
Hamdeok is Jeju’s coastal paradise. Ideal for those who want to relax on the sand or watch the sunrise. The area is quieter but with highly sought-after accommodations.
Best hotels in Hamdeok
- Budget: Yaho Beach House – Cozy accommodation near the beach, ideal for budget travelers.
- Mid-range: Hotel Sweet Castle Jeju Hamdeok – Modern hotel with a seasonal pool and spa, perfect for families.
- Luxury: Utop Ubless Hotel Jeju – Luxury beachfront hotel with stunning views and premium amenities.
Other areas to stay in Jeju
During our road trip around Jeju, we took the opportunity to explore other areas of the island that also seemed like great places to stay in Jeju. If you’re looking for alternatives to downtown Jeju City or Seogwipo, these two areas are worth checking out:
- Aewol – Located on the northwest coast of the island, it has a calmer atmosphere, ideal for those who want to relax away from the hustle and bustle. It’s a coastal area very popular with locals, with ocean-view cafes and incredible sunsets. A good option here is the Jeju Marevo Beach Hotel, with spacious rooms and ocean views.
- Hyeopjae Beach – One of Jeju’s most beautiful beaches, with white sand and turquoise-blue water. If you’re traveling in the summer and want to stay near the beach, this is an excellent option. There are good restaurants nearby, and Hallim Park is right next door.
Tips for choosing where to stay in Jeju
- For nature: Seogwipo, with waterfalls and coastal trails.
- For urban life: Jeju City has more restaurants, shops, and transportation.
- For beach and tranquility: Hamdeok is the ideal choice.
- On a limited budget: Jeju City and Hamdeok offer great budget options.
- For a romantic trip: Seogwipo or Hamdeok with charming ocean-view accommodations.
FAQs: Frequently asked questions about where to stay in Jeju
Is it worth traveling to South Korea?
Yes! South Korea offers a unique combination of traditional culture, advanced technology, incredible natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine.
What are the best destinations to visit in South Korea?
Seoul for urban life and culture, Busan for beaches and markets, Jeju for nature, and Gyeongju for ancient history.
Do I need a visa to travel to South Korea?
Portuguese citizens typically only need a K-ETA (electronic authorization) for short stays. Always check before traveling.
Is it expensive to travel in South Korea?
Not necessarily. While Seoul can be expensive, there are affordable accommodation options, street food, and efficient transportation throughout the country.
What is the best time to travel to South Korea?
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and stunning landscapes with cherry blossoms or autumn leaves.
